SIHANOUKVILLE: The American cruise ship that was granted refuge in Cambodia after the world all but shut down in response to Covid-19 is returning to Sihanoukville on December 28 with 3,500 people and a much lighter purpose.

In February of 2020, the Westerdam cruise ship and its 1,400 passengers were denied entry by five nations. It was originally meant to be a 14 day cruise to Japan, who refused the ship due to Covid concerns. Former Prime Minister Hun Sen took the opportunity to provide humanitarian assistance to the passengers of 14 different nationalities so that they could finally begin making their way home from the ill-fated journey. The World Health Organization lauded Cambodia as a “small country with a big heart” and applauded the efforts made for a smooth emergency response. “One important lesson learned is that leadership and solidarity can be as crucial as the technical elements of public health responses,” said the WHO. “An effectively coordinated response goes well beyond the scope of the health sector and must include a whole-of-government approach, steered by the country’s leaders.

The ship will be returning to the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port at the end of the month with 4,000 aboard. "If there is no change, the Westerdam will bring 4,000 tourists to Cambodia on December 28, 2023,” said Phnom Penh Deputy Governor Keut Chhe. A meeting was held on December 12 between the Sihanouk Department of Tourism, Sihanouk Deputy Governor Long Dimanche, the Port Authority, and other relevant departments and authorities to prepare for the arrival of the ship.